Abnormalities in EEG as migraine marker: a mini review

Abstract

The electroencephalogram (EEG) records the spontaneous electrical activity of the brain and is useful in diagnosing various brain conditions. It is commonly used in diagnosing epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Recent research has also suggested that EEG can be used to detect migraine, although the findings in this area are still being investigated. The aim of this study is to review the use of EEG in detecting migraine in past and recent investigations. EEG has been used in migraine studies since the early 20th century, and subsequent studies have explored its use in understanding the pathophysiology of migraine and developing new treatments for the condition. Abnormal EEG patterns, including increased theta and delta activity and decreased alpha and beta activity, have been found in migraine patients during attacks. Studies have shown that EEG can be used to detect migraine and identify specific EEG biomarkers of the condition. Resting-state functional connectivity and altered connectivity in the anterior cingulate cortex have been linked to migraine chronification and may predict treatment outcomes in patients with chronic migraine. However, the specificity of EEG in diagnosing migraine is low, and more research is needed to determine its diagnostic utility.